The auction raised nearly $120,000, all of which will go directly to Uganda schools and orphanages.

Hands of Love began in 2007, when Pastor Elijah Sebuchu founded an orphanage for the thousands of children wandering the streets and bush of Uganda aimlessly. Sebuchu, who was at the event, said he recognized a need to help grow the future of Uganda.

The gala and fundraiser auctioned works of art that each raised between $100 and $15,000.

Pieces included jewelry made from magazine strips that had been turned into beads, wooden sculptured bowls depicting giraffes and elephants and banana leaf paintings that reveal superior craftsmanship from the people of Uganda.

In a country riddled by repeat cycles of war, disease and extreme poverty, each work of Ugandan art proudly showed triumph over disparity.

Much of the auctioned art was created by the students of the Hands of Love schools.

In addition, 45 children and three staff members are now being sponsored and receiving assistance.

To show their support for a cause, the Metropolitan Club donated many of their services that night. Many felt that was rewarding in itself, knowing that children would benefit.

Program co-founder Anna Latshaw said she is amazed how much interest has grown over the three years since the galas began and how they encourage more awareness and bring more families to sponsor children.

“We anticipate the galas to continue to raise awareness each year and to continue increasing the number of children sponsored,” said Latshaw.

To learn more about Hands of Love, or to donate or sponsor a child or staff member, go to www.handsofloveusa.org and change a life.